Sharing the Towpath Trail

Trail etiquette and safety guidelines for the Delaware Canal towpath

The Canal towpath is a multi-use trail

The scenic beauty and diverse landscape of the 58.9-mile-long Delaware Canal State Park attracts thousands of visitors every year. Those who use its towpath trail do so in many ways – walking, hiking, jogging, and bicycling.

Users Guide to the Delaware Canal Towpath

BE COURTEOUS
All trail users including bicyclists, hikers, joggers, people with disabilities and dog walkers should be respectful of other users regardless of their speed or level of skill.

GO SLOW
There’s so much to see along the Delaware Canal. Don’t miss it by speeding by too quickly. Enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

SHARE THE TRAIL
Cyclists should yield to all other trail users. Hikers and joggers should be aware of cyclists. Remember, pass on the left.

BE INFORMED
Please check trail signs and use maps. Get to know your State Park staff.

SIGNAL WHEN PASSING
Let your fellow trail users know you are coming and give a clear warning signal before passing on a bike. A friendly greeting or bell is considerate and works well. Indicate “on your left” when passing on the left.

LOW BRIDGES AND BLIND SPOTS
Be mindful of low bridge clearances and limited lines of sight and be prepared to walk a bicycle under these structures when necessary.

DON’T BLOCK THE TRAIL
When in a group, including your pets, use no more than half of the trail so as not to block the flow of other users.

STAY ON THE TRAIL
For nearly all of its length, the Delaware Canal State Park property is only 60 feet wide. Please do not wander onto adjoining private properties. Respect the rights and privacy of the owners.

KEEP THE CANAL CLEAN
The Park’s policy is “Carry in-Carry out.” Pick up along the way, if you choose.

Special tips for hikers, runners and dog walkers

• Stay to the right of the trail and pass on the left.
• Safe multi-use requires cooperation.
• Announce yourself when overtaking other trail users.
• When hiking or jogging with a dog, obey posted leash regulations. Keep a short leash on your dog when passing or being passed by other trail users.
• Remember – Other trail users may be frightened by dogs and unsure of how to pass safely.
• Please clean up after your dog. It is common courtesy and it’s the law.

Special tips for cyclists

• Stay to the right of the trail and pass on the left.
• Safe multi-use requires cooperation.
• Announce yourself when overtaking other trail users.
• When hiking or jogging with a dog, obey posted leash regulations. Keep a short leash on your dog when passing or being passed by other trail users.
• Remember – Other trail users may be frightened by dogs and unsure of how to pass safely.
• Please clean up after your dog. It is common courtesy and it’s the law